The groom entered, and closed the door behind him. He was a tall, gray-haired man, with an honest face and enormously large hands.
"What is it, Henry? Did the count send you?"
"No, madame; I only wish he were able."
"Why? What is the matter with him?"
"I don't know, indeed! I believe he is dying."
"Who? Ludwig?"
"Yes, madame; my master."
"For God's sake, tell me what you mean!"
"He is lying on his bed, quite out of his mind. His face is flushed, his eyes gleam like hot coals, and he is talking wildly. I have never seen him in such a condition."
"Oh, heaven! what shall we do?"